"We've had a very rigorous training cycle to prepare us to execute any mission when called upon," said Capt. Malcolm Potts, Commander, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 1 and Commander of BOXARG. "I am awed and impressed by the ingenuity, creativity, and industriousness of the 4, 200 dedicated Sailors and Marines that serve on our ships."

The ships will embark approximately 2,400 Marines from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU). The MEU is capable of conducting conventional amphibious operations and selected maritime special operations at night or during adverse weather conditions from the sea, by surface or by air.

U.S. Third Fleet leads naval forces in the Eastern Pacific from the West Coast of North America to the international date line and provides the realistic, relevant training necessary for an effective global Navy.

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